Ingredient review
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane
INCI: PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane
A synthetic emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in formulas, generally considered safe and non-irritating.
In plain English
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in your skincare products. It's part of a family of ingredients called PEGs (polyethylene glycols), which are widely used in cosmetics to create smooth, stable textures. This particular version is often found in creams, lotions, and sunscreens to improve how the product feels on your skin and how evenly it spreads.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic polymer made by reacting ethylene oxide with diphenylol propane (a type of bisphenol). It belongs to the PEG family and acts as an emulsifier and surfactant.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable mixture. This helps create a smooth, uniform product that spreads easily and doesn't separate over time.
Pros
Gentle emulsifier
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is considered low-irritation and is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Improves formula feel
It helps create a silky, non-greasy texture that makes products more pleasant to apply and absorb.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a PEG compound, it is made from petroleum-derived ingredients, which may not align with natural or 'clean' skincare preferences.
Limited skin research
While generally regarded as safe, there is less published research on this specific PEG compared to more common emulsifiers.
Best for
- Anyone using creams or lotions who wants a smooth, stable texture
- People with normal to dry skin looking for gentle emulsifiers
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic PEG compounds
- Individuals with known sensitivities to PEG derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though some consumers prefer to avoid PEGs due to manufacturing concerns.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has evaluated PEG compounds and concluded they are safe in cosmetics. Specific studies on PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane are limited, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied PEG emulsifiers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed PEG compounds and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are synthetic and may not be biodegradable. However, they are used in very low concentrations in skincare.
Good to know
- PEG numbers (like 13) refer to the polymer chain length, which affects how the ingredient behaves in a formula.
- This ingredient is not the same as bisphenol A (BPA) and is considered safe for cosmetic use by regulators.
Common questions
What is PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane in beauty products?
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in your skincare products. It's part of a family of ingredients called PEGs (polyethylene glycols), which are widely used in cosmetics to create smooth, stable textures. This particular version is often found in creams, lotions, and sunscreens to improve how the product feels on your skin and how evenly it spreads.
What does PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable mixture. This helps create a smooth, uniform product that spreads easily and doesn't separate over time.
Is PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane safe for most people?
PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though some consumers prefer to avoid PEGs due to manufacturing concerns.
Who should be careful with PEG-13 Diphenylol Propane?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic PEG compounds Individuals with known sensitivities to PEG derivatives (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.